Writing the summary…
Amazon uses its tracking data to guess whether shoppers have a flat butt and no friends

Original reporting
The Verge: read the full reportRelated stories
Google experiments with an AI-powered gaming platform
Google Labs is working on a new AI-powered game-creation platform called Playground for users to build browser-based games using simple text prompts.

New leaks provide our first look at Apple and LG’s smart home devices
Following a report from Bloomberg yesterday that Apple is collaborating with LG for a new collection of smart home devices and accessories, a reliable leaker known as "pdfu" on X has revealed more details about several of the new products, including a thermostat with a "Far Sight Display" that sounds similar to what Nest offers. […]
OpenAI’s Alexander Embiricos is coming to TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 — days after the launch of Dots
OpenAI’s Alexander Embiricos is coming to the AI Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, just days after the launch of Dots. Join this conversation by registering for your pass. Get you pass now to save up to $100 and get a second at 50% off.
Get hands-on: The full lineup of interactive roundtables at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026
From Nvidia and Chime to Obvious Ventures and Anthropic, explore the entire roundtable agenda at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026. Register now to save up to $100 on your pass and get a second pass at 50% off.
6 days to TechCrunch Disrupt 2026: Save on your pass before doors open
In 6 days, 10,000+ people from across the global startup and tech ecosystem will come together at San Francisco’s Moscone West for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026. If you’re planning to be one of them, don’t wait to register your ticket before prices increase at the door. Save up to $100 on your pass, plus 50% on a second of the same type.
Google’s new SynthID website can identify AI-generated media
Google on Tuesday launched a new site that lets anyone verify whether a piece of media, be it an image, a video, or an audio clip, is generated using AI.